Hey there fellow yarn lovers! If you're like me, nothing beats the satisfaction of diving into a new knitting or crocheting project, letting the soft fibers weave magic through your fingers. But let's talk about the elephant in the room - the unique challenges we face as yarn shoppers living in beautiful, but remote, New Zealand. Being far away from global yarn hubs means we're not exactly spoiled for choice when it comes to yarn shopping. While our international yarn pals enjoy a smorgasbord of options, we often find ourselves staring at limited selections and hefty shipping fees.
The United States seem to be blessed with such a large range of yarns to choose from! As you see those crochet Tiktok trends or that amazing knitted blanket aesthetic on Instagram; you're left wondering how you can make the same here in New Zealand.
Well that's where we come in to help! We have sourcing to a wide range of yarns from North America including Bernat, Caron, Yarnspiration, Lion Brand, Red Heart and Premier. So if it is currently something that we don't have in stock please chat to us and we may be able to source it for you!
See our HUGE Range of pre-order yarns HERE which makes it so easy to order.
Whether its Polyester, Acrylic, scrubby yarn, t shirt yarn, macramé yarn, bamboo, linen, organic plant based yarns; its up for grabs!
There are so many brands and ranges of yarn to mention them all but to name a few : Lion Brand Heartland, Caron simply soft, Premier Eversoft, Premier Anti pilling DK and worsted, Lion Brand Mandala, DIY glow yarn, Lion Brand Rewind yarn, Lion Brand Scrubby yarn. Please get in touch by emailing info@flockofknitters.co.nz or by our contact page HERE or DM on our socials.
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For all those who are new to Chenille yarn (commonly called plushy yarn) we give a guide on how to use it, what to make and common stitches! Free Patterns to get you started!
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Firstly understanding Chunky Chenille Yarn
Chunky chenille yarn is a bulky weight yarn characterized by its plush, velvety texture. Made from polyester, it boasts a unique construction that mimics the feel of velvet, providing an incredibly soft and snuggly result. Its thickness and fluffiness make it a popular choice for creating warm and comforting items such as blankets, pillows, and accessories. It also works up very quickly into typically larger pieces so is a great choice for crafters who want to sell their creations but want be time conscious on their makes!
Choosing the Right Hook and Gauge
To achieve the best results with chunky chenille yarn, selecting the appropriate hook size is crucial. Generally, a hook in the range of 6mm to 10mm works well with this yarn weight. For amigurumi it is also advisable to go down a couple of hook sizes to create a more tight, condensed toy without spaces. For example Premier Parfait chunky states 8mm as the recommended hook but for amigurumi patterns a 6mm is recommended.
However, it's essential to check the recommended gauge on the yarn label and make a gauge swatch to ensure the desired stitch tension and project size. For example Premier Parfait chunky is a super bulky weight and Parfait chunky XL is a jumbo weight and therefore require completely different hook sizes.
Exploring Crochet Stitches
One of the beauties of working with chunky chenille yarn is that it allows you to create stunning texture effortlessly. Here are some crochet stitches that complement this yarn:
1. Single Crochet: The simplicity of the single crochet stitch highlights the yarn's plushness, creating a dense and cozy fabric.
2. Half Double Crochet: This stitch adds height and a slight openness to your work, making it ideal for scarves, shawls, and lightweight blankets.
3. Moss Stitch: The alternating pattern of single crochet and chain stitches creates a visually appealing texture that works well with chunky chenille yarn.
4. Bobble Stitch: If you want to add pops of texture to your project, the bobble stitch is perfect. The thick yarn emphasizes the bobbles, giving your work a playful and fluffy appearance.
Now for the fun part- project Ideas with Chunky Chenille Yarn
• Chunky Blankets: Snuggle up in a luscious chunky chenille blanket, perfect for keeping warm during chilly nights. Experiment with different stitch patterns, such as the classic granny square or the trendy corner-to-corner (C2C) technique, to add visual interest.
• Cozy Accessories: Create stylish scarves, kids sweaters,cowls, and hats that are both fashionable and functional. The chunkiness of the yarn will provide excellent insulation, keeping you warm and stylish throughout the winter months.
• Home Decor: Elevate your living space with chunky chenille yarn home decor projects. Crochet plush pillows, soft throws, and even poufs to add a touch of luxury and comfort to any room.
• Amigurumi: Chunky chenille yarn can give your adorable stuffed toys a huggable and cuddly texture. There are a ton of amazing amigurumi toy pattern designers out there with the most adorable patterns to create fun snuggly toys. Its also important to note that if you have a favourite amigurumi pattern that has been written in a 4ply cotton weight (which is common) it can just as easily be adapted with the right hook using chenille yarn. You will get a much larger outcome but with a bit of trial and error on the specific look you are going for it is very much adaptable. Some worth mentioning are @knotjadedco @allaboutjade and the cutes wee snugglers by @mamamademinis
Care and Maintenance
As with any crochet project, it's essential to follow the care instructions for your chunky chenille yarn creations. While most chunky chenille yarn is machine washable, it's recommended to use a gentle cycle and air dry or lay flat to retain the its softness and shape.
Chunky chenille yarn opens up a world of possibilities for crocheters, allowing you to create incredibly soft and luxurious items. Whether you're making blankets, accessories, home decor, or even amigurumi, the plushness of this yarn adds an extra layer of comfort and style to your projects. So, grab some chunky chenille yarn, unleash your creativity, and embark on a crochet journey filled with warmth and texture!
Check out all the chenille yarn we have in stock HERE
Lastly here are some free patterns from Premier Yarns that will start your journey to working with chenille yarns.
PREMIER YARNS- CUPCAKE AND ICE CREAM CONE- FREE PATTERN
PREMIER YARNS- LITTLE BOW BLANKET -FREE PATTERN
Remember to share your creations with us on Instagram and tiktok @flockofknittersnz to showcase your work to the crochet community. Happy crocheting with chunky chenille yarn!
]]>The widely popular Scheepjes Catona yarns have become a go-to yarn for many crafters. Made from 100% Mercerised Cotton, this Fingering weight yarn is naturally breathable and characterised by a soft, delicate sheen and a smooth and supple touch. Create a range of garments, amigurumi, accessories, homeware items and toys for kids with this indispensable yarn!
It has been available in an enormous 109 colours but with their latest addition of another 4 Neon colours the range is now at 113 colours! Your choices are endless.
This was from a past Crochet Along (CAL) for a beautiful Shawl see link Here but shows some great Catona colour combinations with the Stone Washed 5ply cotton blend yarn:
Rainbow Scheepjes Catona colours above are:
115,281,208,280,205,146,201,282,114,222
Jewel Scheepjes Catona colours above are:
258,130,411,401,412,391,128,400,396,394
Pastel Scheepjes Catona colours above are:
264,414,403,402,212,406,172,179,409,408
Danish MermaidScheepjes Catona colours above are:
130,392,412,502,513,389,241,253,397,509
Here are some Scheepjes Catona crocheted up into some beautiful projects:
Pretty Little Things 21 - Polar Bear Mug Cosy by Elise Verra
The Polar Bear Mug Cosy designed by Elise Verra will keep your warming winter tipple piping hot for longer. Made with Scheepjes Catona, it uses the tapestry crochet technique to create a cool character who’ll make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. An ideal gift - but only if you can bear to give him away! Pattern can be found on Ravelry here
It uses Scheepjes Catona colours:
YARN - The After Party 116 Florence the Unicorn by Nienke Jongstra
Florence the Unicorn is sure to enchant any little one with a big imagination! Crochet this mythical snuggle buddy in Scheepjes Catona complete with golden horn and hooves, swishy mane of spiralling curls and scaled lower body in soft rainbow colours. Embroidered sleepy eyes with long lashes give this rare magical creature a gentle, endearing appearance. Florence is designed to fit over a wobble ball with integrated tinkling bell. Give her a little nudge and she'll stimulate the senses as she begins to tumble up and down, jingling delightfully as she moves. Pattern can be found on Ravelry here
It uses Scheepjes Catona colours:
So if you are thinking about your next project or looking into some different colourways why not try Scheepjes Catona for your cotton needs. We are on online delivery Yarn shop but we are more than happy to show you some colourways if you are undecided about any particular shades. Please contact us on info@flockofkntters.co.nz.
]]>Its perfect for that summer tote bag, lightweight summer hat, clutch, espadrilles, baskets, plant hangers. Your only limited by your crochet imagination.
So what is Raffia?
Wool and the Gang have a signature summer Ra-ra Raffia yarn. Its Vegan, biodegradable and water repellent so perfect for all your summer/spring crochet making.
It is a unique yarn so there are some considerations when you start working with it.
1.Its incredibly lightweight and may unravel so you need to work from the outside (no centre pull) and need to keep a rubber band or hairtie around it to keep it from unravelling.
2.You need to watch out for the tangles, sort them out ASAP.
See here for how it looks working up:
The Details:
100% paper
Available in a range of colours
100g = 250meters Double knitting/light worsted.
Suggested crochet hook size is 3.5-5mm
Tension 19st/16 rows in single crochet on a 4.5mm crochet hook.
Just wipe clean.
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Hoooked Recycled DK cotton is made with respect for the environment and free of any additional dyes or toxic substances.
This cotton yarn is super versatile and can be used for a variety of projects, such as amigurumi, summer tops, soft blankets, granny blankets, garments, spring jumpers, shawls and baby items.
A perfect yarn for making soft textures in both crochet and knit.
The collection has 32 beautiful colours and matches perfectly the colours of other recycled yarns in the Hoooked range, such as RibbonXL. See all 32 colours in our shop (click here)
This yarn is machine washable on low temperatures. Do not tumble dry.
First impressions:
Hoooked yarn is a large yarn manufacturer in the Netherlands who operate their factory in Portugal and use recycled fabrics from all over Europe for their yarn.
Its very soft for a recycled yarn, not as soft as a Lion Brand soft as butta but definitely soft for children and as first layer.
It has 32 amazing colours which are subtle and yet vibrant enough for any project from baby to adult garments. Colours like Jaipur Rose, Dublin Blue and Riga Yellow would make beautiful childrens tops, blankets and toys. On the other hand, colours like Bordeaux red, Paramaribo Palm would make elegant adult garments.
Its suitable for knitting and crochet. I have tried both see in photos below and they have worked up very nicely even in very basic stitches.
Biggest ups:
I think the biggest reason for using Hoooked soft cotton yarn is that it is 100% recycled and atleast 80% made from recycled cottons and 20% from other recycled fibres and free from any toxic dyes and additives.
Recycled cotton or Upcycled cotton is a very environmentally friendly yarn even more than organic cotton. As the fashion industry is one the largest polluters globally, recycling converts waste into new materials.
I know there are a lot of people who have wool allergies and look to other natural fibres to knit and crochet. My little Miss 3 is not allergic but really hates that “feeling” of wool against any part of her skin. I’ve tried so many different types of wool and blends but she will just not have a bar of it even if it is just a smidge around the neckline or arms. So knitting and crocheting in cotton has really been my go to for her little pieces.
That’s why I also think cotton is a great alternative to wool. Many people don’t like to knit in synthetic fibres like acrylic for babies as it is hard for babies to regulate their temperatures in it. So many resort to wool but my personal experience has been that children can find the fuzziness too much for their senses even if it’s the softest natural wool.
Some considerations:
I imagine due to its recycled nature it tends to not be as tightly spun than a regular cotton that you may be used to (mercerized cotton or perhaps a Lily Sugar and Cream cotton) so you may find the yarn splits a bit easier than other cottons. It may not suit an absolute novice crocheter/knitter.
What others say about Hoooked soft cotton:
“It didn’t unravel as I crocheted and the center pulled out nicely”
“Great quality, great colors!”
“soft, smooth, easy to work with, the color bleeds a tiny bit on first wash but it's totally manageable. blocks perfectly”
(amigurumi made with Hoooked soft cotton- kits available)
Composition |
80% recycled cotton and 20% other recycled fibres |
Yarn weight |
DK (4-5mm) |
Materials |
Recycled Cotton |
Color |
32 colours |
Weight |
50g |
Crochet hook |
Crochet 4-6 mm |
Knitting needles |
Knitting 4-6 mm |
Yarn length |
85m |
Image credits: Hoooked and Flock of Knitters NZ
Find out how its natural properties and versatility make it perfect for your next knitting/crochet project! Whether its 4ply or 8ply cotton yarn. The spotlight is on cotton!
]]>It has become increasingly popular with the sustainable living trend across the globe. As we become more conscious of the environment people are switching from one-use disposal kitchen wipes to long lasting washcloths and scrubbies. But why not have ones that really complement a beautiful kitchen that makes you want to cook dinner and the cleanup afterwards!
Cotton is natural, soft, breathable and versatile for knitters and crocheters! Cotton has so many uses for baby & children, garments, amigurumi, blankets, toys, homeware the list goes on! Its also a great alternative for those with wool allergies. It can produce some truly vibrant colours.
#1. WHAT ARE ITS PROPERTIES?
It's natural and extremely absorbent which makes it perfect for dishcloths and around the home. It is great at taking moisture away from the skin and keeping you cool.
#2. WHAT TYPES ARE THERE?
Cotton often separated into is Pima cotton (produced in the States) and Egyptian cotton. Cotton is also available in mercerised and organic. Mercerised cotton is where it has gone through a specialised process that makes the natural fibers more luminous/ have a slight sheen and be stronger.
#3. WHAT CAN YOU MAKE WITH COTTON YARN?
Because of its absorbency, softness, vibrant colors, and care, cotton is a go-to fiber for many knitting and crochet projects.
AROUND THE HOUSE
Cotton yarn is great for knitting household items such as towels, rugs, pillows, market bags, washcloths, pot holders, and by far the most popular, dishcloths. Not only is cotton super absorbent but texture can give some scrubbing ability. They also hold their colour well and look great in the kitchen!
FOR YOUR BABY & CHILD
Cotton is an excellent choice for babies because it is easy-care, soft on skin, and available in vibrant colors.
Why I use it?
I personally love using cotton yarn (knitting cotton or crochet cotton). Im a very practical person so I love that I can incorporate beautifully knitted/crocheted washcloths and dishcloths into my daily use around the house. I love how its so soft when I work with it and the variety of colours just make me happy and smile as I see the project taking shape.
One of the biggest Ups of cotton is that there are a lot of quick knit/easy knit patterns that can also make beautiful gifts. Perhaps for a new neighbour who has moved in, a teacher’s end of year present, or as a gift for an expectant mum!
The possibilities are endless!
Suggestions for cotton: Bernat Handicrafters cotton & Lily sugar and Cream range is well known for all types of dishcloths, washcloths and the like. It is a thick ply so will knit up quick (knitting or crochet)!
Hoooked Eco cotton is great for the environment as its made up of recycled cotton so its great for garments, blankets and other toys and craft items.
Check out our full range of cotton yarns, each bursting with colour and full of possibilities!
Try making a few with these free links to patterns below:
Free waffle dishcloth pattern
Free simple cotton dishcloth pattern
Free easy crochet Scrubby pattern
Free simple crochet coaster pattern
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Catania is produced from high quality 100% combed and mercerized cotton.
Recommended for both knitting and crochet, Catania is a great choice for summery garments and airy accessories, thanks to its cool and light weight comfort. Its also very famous in the world of Amigurumis!
Schachenmayr has been producing handknitting yarns since 1822. Catania is produced from high quality 100% combed and mercerized cotton.
Recommended for both knitting and crochet, Catania is a great choice for summery garments and airy accessories, thanks to its cool and light weight comfort. Its also very famous in the world of Amigurumis!
Specifications
Yarn Weight: Sport - 5ply | Fine (2)
Yarn ball weight: 50g
Yarn Meterage/Yardage: 125m
Tension/Gauge: 26 stitches, 36 rows to 10cm (4in)
Yarn Season: All Season
Recommended Needles (mm/UK/US):
2.75 mm / 12 / 2
3.00 mm / 11 / -
3.25 mm / 10 / 3
3.50 mm / - / 4
2.50 mm
Care Instructions Machine Wash
Yarn is baby safe - Its in compliance with EU regulations and is certified according to OEKO-TEX Standard 100, product class I. The more intensive the skin contact of a product and the more sensitive the skin, the stricter the human-ecological requirements that need to be complied with. Product class I has the strictest criteria. Products include articles for babies and toddlers up to 3 years of age (e.g. underwear, rompers, clothing, bed linen, toys, etc.).
My personal review:
It has a very tight twist of strands which helps it not to split when hooking/knitting. It also is very smooth and soft and doesnt look like it will have pilling or be fluffy thus not shed.
It feels pretty soft for a mercerised cotton yarn but tended to stiffen up slightly when worked up. It has really vivid colours and a slight sheen which helps with the stitch definition when worked up.
What others say :
“It's great stuff for small or detailed amigurumi.
“Really nice, vibrant colours and knits up well for the baby toys I've made. Nice soft feel in the finished product!
“Love this thread, the cotton is really soft, i am working a shawl and is perfect for what i wanted.
“I have only just started to crochet in the last few months and this wool is one of my favourites to use, really easy nice feel on the hands and also stays together really well.
“The yarn has a sheen to it unlike a lot of cotton yarn which can be dull and limp. The sheen gives a professional look to finished project.
Why not try this yarn out for yourself?
Here are some free patterns with this yarn that an an easy click download from Schachenmayr's website with their Catania yarn no registering required. see below.
free easy crochet dishcloth pattern
Feel Free to leave any of your own reviews regarding how you have found this yarn or any questions you may want answered by us or the community at Flock of Knitters.
If you have used Scheepjes-Catona, Patons -Grace, Cascade Yarns-Ulta Pima Fine; Schachenmayr Catania Cotton is a very good subsititute that you can try!
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